AFL Queensland today announced a Masters exhibition game that will curtain-raise the Queensland vs. Western Australian Amateur Football League (WAAFL) representative clash on June 3.
The Masters match, made up of players over the age of 45, will take place between North Queensland and South East Queensland.
It kicks off at 5:15pm at Leyshon Park, Yeronga, with the Queensland WAAFL game to follow at 7:00pm.
North Queensland Masters Delegate, Maurie Soars, said that it’s a fantastic chance to play on a big stage.
“When it was first raised, the enthusiasm of the guys was huge. It’s an opportunity we haven’t had before, it’s the first time this has happened for us,” Soars said.
“I think when you come down to the Masters, just to live the experience is what I’m looking forward to the most. Just taking the field is a win in itself, anything that comes out of that is a bonus.”
AFL Queensland Masters President, Steve Burchill, said that the exhibition game is important for a variety of reasons.
“It’s really going to showcase Masters footy, and also gives us the chance to look at players before selection for the National Carnival in October,” Burchill said.
“The skill level and the endeavor is always going to be there. The people playing footy at this age just love playing footy, that’s why we do it.
“I’ve already spoken to a few, and they are very excited already, it’s going to be great.”
AFL Queensland State Football Operations Manager, Barry Gibson, said that the game is a great way to acknowledge the state’s past players.
“In our 150th year, it’s fantastic that we are able to recognise some of our champions of the past with this exhibition match,” Gibson said.
“It will be a very important day for us, so to be able have the whole state recognised, with a North Queensland team and a South East Queensland team, is great.
“With the Gold Coast hosting the AFL National Masters Carnival in October this year, it’s will be fantastic to showcase Masters footy, as well as get a first hand look at some of the players who will represent Queensland.”
MATCH DETAILS
South East Queensland Masters vs. North Queensland Masters
Friday, June 3, 5:15pm, Leyshon Park, Yeronga
Queensland vs. Western Australian Amateur Football Association
Friday June 3, 7:00pm, Leyshon Park, Yeronga
By Andrew Wiles
Follow @andrewjwiles
